MS Dhoni marks 45th birthday, career milestones

Mahendra Singh Dhoni, the legendary former captain of the Indian cricket team, celebrated his 45th birthday on Tuesday, July 7, 2026. The occasion prompted widespread reflection on a career that redefined leadership and success in the sport, both for India and globally.

Dhoni, who retired from international cricket in August 2020 but continues to play for the Chennai Super Kings in the Indian Premier League, holds a unique place in cricket history. He is the only captain to have won all three major ICC white-ball trophies: the T20 World Cup in 2007, the ODI World Cup in 2011, and the Champions Trophy in 2013. Under his leadership, India also ascended to the number one ranking in Test cricket in December 2009.

His statistical achievements are vast and several remain unmatched. Dhoni holds the world record for captaining his national side in the most international matches, with 332 appearances across all formats. As a wicketkeeper-batter, he revolutionized the role, amassing 17,266 international runs and effecting 839 dismissals. He holds the record for the most stumpings in ODI history with 123, and his unbeaten 183 against Sri Lanka in 2005 remains the highest individual score...